Empowering Women with PCOS: A Natural Approach to Hormonal Balance

Empowering Women with PCOS: A Natural Approach to Hormonal Balance

Empowering Women with PCOS: A Natural Approach to Hormonal Balance

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common and misunderstood hormonal disorders affecting women today. It's estimated that up to 1 in 5 women of reproductive age may have PCOS, yet up to 70% go undiagnosed. Symptoms can include irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, acne, infertility, mood swings, and more. But at Rocky Mountain Co-Op, under the direction of Dr. Donald Pfau DC, we believe PCOS is not a life sentence — it’s a condition you can learn to manage naturally, safely, and effectively.

What Is PCOS?

PCOS is a complex hormonal imbalance where the ovaries may produce too much androgen (male hormone), leading to symptoms like:

  • Irregular or missed periods
  • Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
  • Oily skin or acne
  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  • Fertility issues

The condition is often driven by insulin resistance, where your body struggles to use insulin properly, which in turn disrupts normal hormone production. Inflammation, stress, nutrient deficiencies, and even post-birth control withdrawal can also play a role.

Conventional Treatments – A Starting Point

Doctors often prescribe birth control pills, metformin, or fertility drugs for PCOS. While these can manage symptoms, they don’t always address the underlying causes. Worse, some women may feel frustrated that they’re “managing” PCOS without feeling truly better.

This is where integrative and functional medicine shines.

Dr. Pfau’s Functional Medicine Approach

Dr. Pfau’s philosophy is simple but powerful: treat the root cause, not just the symptoms. We approach PCOS with comprehensive lab testing, nutrition and lifestyle guidance, and targeted supplementation — all tailored to the individual. We also recognize that not all PCOS is the same.

The 4 Common Types of PCOS

Understanding your PCOS type helps create the most effective plan. Here are four major types:

  1. Insulin-Resistant PCOS – The most common form. High insulin levels trigger the ovaries to produce too much testosterone. Signs include sugar cravings, weight gain, and dark patches on the skin.
  2. Adrenal PCOS – Excess stress causes the adrenal glands to overproduce DHEA-S. This type is common in women with high anxiety or cortisol dysregulation.
  3. Post-Pill PCOS – Some women experience PCOS-like symptoms after stopping hormonal birth control. This type often improves over time but can benefit from detox support.
  4. Inflammatory PCOS – Chronic inflammation disrupts hormonal balance. Look for signs like fatigue, joint pain, or a history of food sensitivities.

Healing PCOS with Food

Nutrition is the cornerstone of PCOS management. The goal is to stabilize blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and support hormone production.

Eat More:

  • Leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower)
  • Berries and fiber-rich fruits
  • Omega-3 rich foods: salmon, walnuts, flaxseed
  • Lean proteins and healthy fats (avocado, olive oil)

Eat Less:

  • Refined carbohydrates (white bread, sugary snacks)
  • Processed or fried foods
  • Excess dairy or gluten (if sensitive)
  • Artificial sweeteners

A Sample Day of PCOS-Friendly Eating:

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and avocado
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken salad with olive oil and lemon dressing
  • Snack: Apple slices with almond butter
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with quinoa and roasted broccoli

Need ideas? Check out our PCOS-friendly recipe bundles and guides at Rocky Mountain Co-Op.

Supplements That Support Hormonal Balance

Supplements can be game-changers when targeted properly. Dr. Pfau recommends professional-grade options to ensure safety and potency.

  • Inosicope (Myo & D-Chiro 40:1): Improves insulin sensitivity and ovulation 
  • Thyroid Support - contains N-Acetylcysteine (NAC): Antioxidant that reduces inflammation and supports egg quality. 

Additional supplements that Dr. Pfau recommends if you are struggling 

  • Fish Oil: Lowers inflammation and supports mood
  • Vitamin D 5,000 - Essential for hormonal and metabolic health
  • Magnesium Essentials - & Zinc: Help regulate blood sugar and hormone levels
  • Berberine: Natural compound that mimics metformin’s blood sugar effects

You can find these in our PCOS Essentials Bundle,  curated by Dr. Pfau himself at Rocky Mountain Co-Op.

“Our mission is to treat the whole person, not just the lab numbers. PCOS is a condition we can conquer by healing the body from within.” – Dr. Donald Pfau

Don’t Overlook Stress, Sleep, and Mental Health

Women with PCOS are more likely to experience anxiety and depression. Hormonal imbalance can affect neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. That’s why we encourage:

  • Daily movement (yoga, walking, light resistance training)
  • Mindfulness or meditation
  • 7–9 hours of quality sleep
  • Reducing screen time and caffeine before bed

Our clinic offers integrative stress support therapies — ask us how to incorporate these into your plan.

Patient Story: Jessica’s Journey

Jessica, 32, came to us with irregular periods, cystic acne, and stubborn weight gain. Labs revealed insulin resistance and elevated DHEA-S. She started an anti-inflammatory diet, inositol + NAC supplements, and practiced 20 minutes of meditation daily. Within three months, her skin cleared, her cycle returned, and she lost 12 pounds without crash dieting. Today, she continues to thrive — balanced and in control of her health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do this if I’m already on birth control or metformin?
Yes! Our approach complements conventional treatments and often helps reduce reliance over time.

Is this expensive?
We prioritize high-impact, affordable options first. Dietary changes and a few core supplements can go a long way.

How long does it take to see results?
Some notice improvements within weeks. Most see significant benefits within 3–6 months.

Will I need to follow a strict diet forever?
Not at all. We focus on long-term, sustainable choices that nourish your body — not restriction.

Your Next Step

If you’re ready to understand your body and restore balance naturally, Dr. Pfau and our team are here for you. Schedule your consultation or explore our curated supplement bundles at Rocky Mountain Co-Op. You deserve personalized care that sees all of you — body, mind, and spirit.

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